Things to Consider Before Renovating Your Home
- kristinasmithdesig
- Jul 11
- 4 min read
Adding additions to your home can be an exciting venture. It provides an opportunity to increase your living space, enhance your property’s value, and create a home that better suits your lifestyle. However, before you dive into this project, it’s essential to carefully consider several factors. This guide will outline key considerations to ensure your home extension meets your needs and expectations.
Understanding Home Extensions/Additions
Home extensions can take many forms, including a new living area, an additional bedroom, or even a larger kitchen. They can significantly alter the functionality of your home. But it’s important to clearly define your purpose for the extension. Ask yourself:
What space do I need?
How will this addition improve my living experience?
Am I looking for a temporary solution or a long-term change?
Clarifying your reasons for the extension will guide the design process as well as the overall project.
Planning Regulations and Building Codes
One of the first things we check is local planning regulations and building codes. Every council has specific rules governing extensions, and failing to comply can lead to fines or the need to dismantle your work. In Brisbane, it’s crucial to research the regulations that apply to your property. Consider the following:
Overlays and Codes: Ensure your extension complies with Council regulations.
Building Act & Queensland Development code: In Queensland these are one of our first ports of call, they tell us everything we need to know and are often linked to;
NCC & Australian Standards: once we have established the requirements on both and state level we move to the National Construction Code, these will be linked to the appropriate Australian standards. Current standards include both Energy efficiency and designing for future livability.
Body Corporate Covenants If you live in a community with an association, you may need their approval.
By hiring a Building Designer you can ensure that your design will have all these regulations taken into account even before concept.
Consulting with a professional is often wise to navigate these requirements effectively. We often talk to both Town planners and Building Certifiers from the beginning to ensure there are no surprises.
How Much Do House Extensions Cost Brisbane?
Understanding the financial implications of a home extension is critical. In Brisbane, the costs can vary widely based on various factors such as size, type of extension, materials used, and labor. Prior to 2020 it was a bit easier to establish cost but since covid recovery has been slow and costs can vary.
Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
Basic Extensions: Generally range between AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,500 per square meter.
Premium Materials: The use of upscale materials will raise costs to AUD 3,000 to AUD 5,000 per square meter.
Labor Costs: Skilled labor can account for 20-30% of total construction costs.
Additionally, keep in mind that unforeseen expenses can arise, so it’s wise to set aside a contingency budget of around 10-15%.
We will help guide you through this process to obtain quotes for construction. We can also recommend the use of an Estimating service to get a better idea. We generally like to look into it as early as possible but often find a lot of Builders like to have Engineering plans in place before finalising quoting.
Impact on Your Property Value
A well-executed home extension can significantly enhance your property’s value. According to the Housing Industry Association, extensions can raise your home’s value by up to 20%. However, the return on investment (ROI) depends on several factors:
Quality of Work: High-quality extensions will yield better results.
Market Trends: Research the current real estate trends in your area to understand potential value boosts.
Neighborhood Standards: Ensure your extension aligns with the character and quality of homes in your neighborhood.
Before you proceed, consulting with a real estate agent can provide insights into whether the extension aligns with market demands.
Designing for the Future
When planning your extension, think about the future. The needs of your family may change over time, and your design should accommodate that flexibility. Here are a few tips:
Use Multi-Functional Spaces: Create rooms that serve more than one purpose.
Consider Accessibility: Design with aging in mind. Wider doorways, fewer stairs, and easy access can make your home more livable long-term.
Sustainable Choices: Incorporate energy-efficient materials and designs to reduce future energy costs.
Making thoughtful design decisions can ensure that your extension continues to meet your needs for years.
Finding the Right Professionals
Finally, hiring the right professionals is essential for a successful home extension project. Consider collaborating with Building Designer, we have a wealth of experience and have a variety of consultants at hand to work through the process.
The right team will help bring your ideas to life while adhering to local regulations and maintaining a high standard of work.
Make Your Home the Best It Can Be
Adding extensions to your home is a significant project that requires careful consideration. By evaluating your needs, understanding costs, and working with qualified professionals, you can create a space that enhances your living experience and bolsters your property value. Remember to remain patient and flexible throughout the process. If you are in Brisbane, check out Kristin Smith Designs home additions brisbane for more guidance on creating your dream home.
In the end, planning and awareness are your best allies in the journey of transforming your home with extensions. Happy building!